Help for Family Members of People With Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder's euphoric highs and devastating lows affect not only the sufferer, but family members as well. These extreme and uncontrollable mood swings often create misunderstanding and can make family feel as if they have done something wrong. Fortunately, there are useful coping tips and help available for family members.

Family Involvement

• As a family member of a bipolar sufferer, you can reduce the risk of relapses by becoming actively involved with the disorder. Fewer relapses will remove the stress and guilt factors from the situation thus promoting peace in family life. The first thing to do is to learn everything you can about bipolar disorder so you can recognize the warning signs of a relapse and possibly identify triggers. Encourage the sufferer to seek treatment from professionals and always offer emotional support to help them adjust to their lives. Be sure to make sure that treatment is continued even if they appear well at the moment. You may even accompany them to the doctor or therapist's office to physically show support, although their session will likely be conducted without your presence. Schedule an appointment for yourself if you wish so that you can relieve related stress through therapy while also displaying to the bipolar patient that treatment is a totally normal thing. Also, if it is determined that the sufferer's bipolar disorder is accompanied by drug or alcohol abuse, try to intervene and make sure the health professional performing the treatment is aware of this. Most important, understand that bipolar patients cannot control their feelings or symptoms. Be patient with them and remember that this is no one's fault.

Make a Plan

• It is natural to feel worry and anxiety about a depressed or manic episode since the bipolar person may feel suicidal or behave recklessly. Since your family member may not be able to think clearly during a relapse, approach him when he is in a well state. Develop a plan together on what to do in the event of a relapse. You may choose to have her hospitalized if something seems life-threatening, or she may desire a different course of action for intervention. Having this plan can alleviate some of your worries.

Support Groups

• Bipolar disorder is a fairly common illness, so you are not the only family member dealing with it. Support groups for family members are widely available online and locally. A support group will provide you with advice and a sense of support from people who have endured the same situation as you. Check with your local community center or hospital, or the patient's therapist, to see what groups are available near you.